#AndyMurray. #NovakDjokovic. Only 1 can stay unbeaten on clay in 2015 after tomorrow … http://t.co/SyZbFfE89zpic.twitter.com/q41MqCa8C1

— Live Tennis (@livetennis) June 4, 2015

[1] Novak Djokovic (SRB) vs [3] Andy Murray (GBR)

This match has not been hyped to the level of the Djokovic-Nadal quarterfinal, but it might deserve equal hype based on 2015 clay court play.  Djokovic won Masters 1000 events in Monte Carlo and Rome.  Andy Murray won the Masters 1000 event in Madrid and also won a title in Munich.

Rivalry

The two men who faced-off in Melbourne for the Australian Open title now duel for a chance at a Roland Garros title.  Murray’s two Grand Slam titles came with wins over Novak Djokovic in the championship match.  Murray also beat Novak in the semifinal round of the 2012 olympic games.  Nole has beaten Murray in 3 Australian Open finals, an Australian Open semifinal, and the 2014 US Open quarterfinal. Novak Djokovic leads their head-to-head 18-8 and has won their 7 most recent matches.  Nole has also won their two meetings on clay including a classic in 2011.

Their Games

In one sense, Murray and Djokovic play in a similar manner.  They are both among the top 5 players on tour when it comes to returning serve, moving, and hitting two-handed backhands.  Djokovic has a stronger forehand and second serve.  Murray’s first serve is still a little stronger in my mind than Djokovic’s increasingly airtight aproach to serving.  Murray has a little more natural touch than Djokovic as well.  Djokovic is more tactically disciplined and is less likely to go off of the grid during a match.

Mental and Physical Fitness

Both men are full of confidence, but I think Novak is as confident as he was in 2011 if not a bit more confident than he was in 2011 at this point in the season.  Both men should be fit, but some people are concerned about Nole’s ability to handle the heat.

What I think Will Happen

There matches in 2014 were all one-sided beatings.  Murray played Nole tough in Melbourne and Miami. I expect Murray to play Djokovic tough again.  However, Novak is a more natural player on clay.  Also, Novak has won 7 straight versus Murray.  I think that will impact both players.  I expect quite a few service breaks and holds under durress as they both return quite well.  Each man’s defensive skills will lead to something akin to video game tennis at times, but when the red clay settles Novak Djokovic should be left standing.

My Prediction: Novak Djokovic d. Andy Murray 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, 6-4